2026 Sheep Drive
A Sheep Drive to Remember
In 2013 The Worshipful Company of Woolmen revived the ancient tradition of Freemen exercising their right to drive sheep across Southwark Bridge, avoiding the historic toll on entering the City. As many will realise, until 2007 London Bridge was used.
Sunday 27th September 2026 saw members of the Society, together with individual members, joining the Woolmen’s Company for a wonderfully atmospheric celebration of this tradition. With thousands gathering for the occasion, the day brought together Freeman, Guild & Livery members and visitors, all enjoying the spectacle in glorious weather.
Masters and Wardens in robes and badges joined those in country attire, while the Livery Fair brought together companies representing the many trades connected with wool and the City.
Once the formal proceedings were complete, with Lady Mayor Dame Susan Langley and TV presenter Gloria Hunniford leading the first drive, the prebooked groups had their own opportunity to take part, following the sheep dutifully going back and forth across the bridge.
The occasion clearly made an impression on one of our members, who was inspired to capture the day in verse. His poem beautifully evokes the colour, pageantry and sense of community surrounding the event:
“thousands came with crook and staff
in suits of plaid and country attire
masters and wardens in scarlet and ermine
to drive their sheep in recognition”
The poem concludes with a fitting tribute to those who made the day possible - the Woolmen and the Young Freemen, whose hard work brought this wonderful celebration of tradition to life. The full poem can be read if you scroll down.
It was a memorable day, and a fine example of how historic customs can be respectfully revived and shared with a new generation.
Photo credit LiverymEn Laura Miller, Marcus Palomar and Dave Brooks and Buters' Company Liveryman Phil McCarthy
Sheep Drive
Lately there has been a reignition
of a Freeman’s right, a tradition,
to avoid ancient taxation
when entering the City location
now on the last Sunday of September
those who took the oath, chose to remember
and attend upon the glorious Guild of Woolmen
on a day when the weather was heaven sent
thousands came with crook and staff
in suits of plaid and country attire
masters and wardens in scarlet and ermine
to drive their sheep in recognition
whilst in the bankside tented encampment
worshipful companies showed their engagement
the drapers and combers, carders, and clothiers
rubbed shoulders with bakers, silversmiths, upholders,
all waiting for the moment when,
our celebrity guest began the proceedings
wonderful Gloria strode out, with entourage in tow
our lady Mayor beside her, her regalia on show,
and when the mighty had completed their drive
the multitude waiting on the other side
took turns behind six playful sheep
not counting, lest we fall asleep,
whilst all around the crowds did bustle
as cameras clicked, capturing the spectacle
speechless tourists, wide eyed children
proud parents and humble brethren
all took home a memory of a day
that captured tradition in a respectful way.
a final thought goes to the folks
that planned the day and made it work
Woolmen and the fine Young Freeman
hard graft created this wonderful occasion.
© Liveryman Dave Brooks
